Electric switch



Nov. 22, 1949 M F KOENlG 2,488,67()

ELECTR IG SWITCH M. F. KOENIG ELECTRIC SWITCH Nov. 22, 1949 3 Shee ts-Shee t 2 Filed Jan. 10, 1946 7l 45 55 57 56 7l 55 l5 Nov. 22, 1949 M F KQEN|G 2,488,670

ELECTRIC SWITCH Filed Jan. 10, 1946 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 cr'. AQ o 4l@ 67 as 415 'l 44v @5 CD) 44 55 41d a7 'as 4:5 a5

Patented Non. 212, 4i

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFlCE ELECTRIC SWITCH Martin F. Koenig, Milwaukee, Wis., assigner to Cutler-Hammer, Inc., Milwaukee, Wis., a corporation of Delaware Application January 10, 1946, Serial No. 640,297

` a mechanical kick-ce device adapted. m the double-throw form of the switch, to insure disengagement oi all oontactors from one set oi their associated stationary contacts before the operating lever and the sliding block reach their center or on position, whereby simultaneous completion of circuit connections at both sides of the switch is positively prevented.

Another object is to minimize the tendency of the contactors to bounce or rebound when closing, to correspondingly decrease the likelihood of the same welding or sticking to their cooperating stationary contacts.

Another object is to so construct the insulating base of the switch and the slider block as to provide a completely enclosed compartment for each pole of the switch, whereby the current controlling capacity of the switch is greatly increased over prior art switches of corresponding size.

Another object is to provide means for properly positioning the slider block with respect to the insulating base as an incident to given degrees of movement of the operating lever in opposite directions respectively. 4

Another object is to provide a pluralform of positioning means to aflord manual operation of the switch to open or closed position, in the event of failure of a part of the positioning means.

Another object ls to provide for attainment oi the aforementioned desirable results without in auf/wise decreasing the normal relatively long life of the switch.

Another object is to provide switches having the aforementioned desirable features, while avoiding any increase in the outside dimensions thereof as compared with prior art switches which the same are adapted tosupersede.

Another object is to provide novel and simple means to render a switch oi.' the aforementioned character of the momentary contact type in one or two of its respective positions.

Other objects and advantages of the invention will hereinafter appear.

The accompanying drawings illustrate certain 55 upper surface il thereof (se Fig. 1l.

29 Claims. (Cl. 20G-16) 2 preferred embodiments of the invention which will now be described, it being understood that the invention is susceptible of embodiment in other forms within the scope of the appended claims. f

In the drawings,

Figure 1 is a top plan view of a recessed molded insulating base adapted for use in constructing a t doublethrow switch of the three-pole type.

Fig. 2 is a vertical longitudinal section, on the line 2-2 of Fig. l, but with the contacter-carrying slider block and the operating and supporting superstructure in assembled position.

Fig. 3 is a. transverse vertical sectional view, on the line 3--3 of Fig. l, but showing all of the switch parts in assembled relation, as in Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a horizontal sectional view, looking in the direction of the arrows 4 4 in Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is a bottom plan view of the switch base shown in Fig. 1, illustrating the form and arrangement of the terminal elements of the binding screw type.

Fig. 6 is a top plan view of a. modified form of recessed molded insulating base, which is so' formed and combined with stationary contact members as to provide a three-pole switch of the single throw on" and oil type.

Fig. 7 is a vertical sectional view, on the line 'l-l of Fig. 6, but with the contactar-carrying slider block and the operating and supporting superstructure in position.

Fig. 8 is a bottom plan view of the complete switch shown in Fig. '1, showing the form and arrangement of the solder lug type of wiring.

recess vwalls thereof notched in the manner shown in Figs. 6 and 9, to provide a so-called doublethrow switch without an intermediate oiP position.

Referring first to that form of my inventiony shown in Figs. i to 5, inclusive, the numeral I5 designates an insulating base molded from any suitable insulating material, such as Bakelite Basel is provided with a relatively large substantially rectangular recess I6 opening to the As shown 613V @im bevil. '15E- Imm u, sufllzablc powder comp (Amer hws@ cmnpostion.

d fi, the .Shanks m" 1" 1.2) is: auch al M m u Wiking wrm mi" tex-mmm mm m slmwm @mandi kms@ l5; s A w l'mm'm mm @Mumie fr: "I

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7 (Fig. 2). This reduces the degree of compression of the left-hand springs B against their respective contactors 42 to correspondingly decrease the degree of pressure of said contactors against the left-hand stationary contacts. Such movement of block 45 toward the right will be yieldably resisted by the action of spring-pressed plungers 51 (Figs. 3 and 4) against the righthand walls of grooves or notches I5' (Fig. 1), which act as cam surfaces. The arrangement is preferably such that the contactors 42 will be disengaged from the left-hand stationary contacts just prior to or at the instant when the ends of plungers 51 are riding over the cam peaks between the adjacent pairs of grooves ili and ith: so that normally the spring-pressed piungers 51 will act to complete the movement of block 4l f and consequently of handle 5P) to the intermediate or "oil' position, even though the manual pressure upon the handle 53* may have `been re leased. Such completion of the movement of block 45 to its intermediate position will, of course, be effected with a quick or snap action, whether or not the handle 53* is manually releasable; a sufficient degree of lost motion being provided between the lower end 53d of the lever and block 45 for this purpose. In such intermediate position of block 45 the pairs of springs 5l associated with each contacter 4Z will act to center the same with respect to the block, so that the respective contacter tips 44` will be substantially equally spaced from the tips 44'I of the opposite sets of stationary contacts.

If, during the aforedescrlbed movement of block 45 from its left-hand extreme position toward its intermediate position, one or more of the contactors 42 should freeze" or weld to its associated left-hand stationary contact, the adjacent shoulders formed on block 45 will engage the upper ends of the vertical arms 41b of any sticking contactors to positively disengage or pry the lefthand ends thereof loose from such stationary contacts, thus breaking the freeze. Such mechanical kickoi action will, moreover, be effected before the block 45 and handle 5l* reach their inter-mediate "ofF position. This feature is o! great practical importance, inasmuch Vas I thereby insure against any possibility that the block 45 and any unfrozen contacter or oontactors might be moved to their extreme right-hand position while another contacter remained frozen in its left-hand extreme position.

In normal operation of the switch from its intermediate position to its right-hand circuit-completing position, only counterclockwise movement of handle 53* is necessary, the spring-pressed plungers 51 riding over the peaks between .the pairs of adjacent grooves lh and itc acting at substantially the moment of engagement of the contactors with the right-hand contacts to provide the desired degree of contact pressure through the medium of thc right-hand springs 56). By reason of the floating or yieldable support of the contactors 42 by block 45 during endwise movement thereof into engagement with the stationary contacts, and by reason of the overpowering spring-bias thereof into engaging position afforded by plungers 51, bouncing of the contaotors 42 when engaging the stationary contacts is effectively prevented. As ai'oreindicated, such bouncing of the contactors when closing is one of the main causes of freezing or welding thereof to the stationary contacts.

Although, as aforestated, all 0i' .the contactera 42 are compelled to move with block 45 `to its intermediate oit position; it is nevertheless pot`- sible to effect rapid movement of the contactera from either of the extreme mitiche thereoi to the other, `by merely manually moving or flipping the handle 53B from one to the other of its es treme positions.

As will be apparent from the above cli-:serlon tion, when the switch parts are in the respective positions thereof shown in Fig. 2, each of the intermediate terminal members will be elec trically connected with the left-hand stationary contact respectively associated therewith. When slider block 46 is in its right-hand extreme position each intermediate terminal member will be electrically connected with its associated righthand contact; and in the intermediate position of block 4B all of the circuit connections contrclled by the switch will be interrupted.

By reason of the aforedescribed slidable inter locking or overlapping arrangement of thc grooves or slots in block 4t with respect to the barriers formed in the recess iii in base i5, the contactors 42 and their cooperating stationary contacts are respectively housed in completely closed compartments, to effectively separate and insulate the poles of the switch from each other.

"Ihis greatly increases the current controlling capacity of the switch and eliminates the possibility of arcirig across the switch poles or to any grounded part of the switch.

Although I have illustrated my invention as applied to a three-pole switch, it will be apparent t0 those skilled in the art that 'the invention is applicable to switches having a greater or lesser number of poles than that illustrated.

As indicated at 1| in Figs. 2 and 5, each of the outer terminal members 43 has associated with the inner end portion thereof a pair of projeetions or bosses 1l, 1i, formed integrally with the bottom wall of base i5 to insure proper position ing of said members and to restrain the some against substantial lateral displacement.

As shown in Fig. l base I5 is provided in its upper surface with four symmetrically arranged trough-shaped grooves 12, 13, 1t and 15, whose inner ends open to the recess i6 in oase iii; and block 4-5 (Fig. d) is likewise provided with four grooves 16. 11, 18 and 19 of corresponding shape and size, the alined pairs of which have their open ends alined with the open ends of the aforementioned grooves i2 to 15, inclusive. The cooperating sets of grooves '72,16; i3, i1; 1t, "it und 15, 19 are respectively adapted to accommodate coiled compression springs (not shown), so that ii' i'our of such springs are employed the bloeit` 45 will always be returned to its intermediate ofi position upon release of handle 53. That is to say, each pair oi springs at one end ol base I5 will apply sufficient force to blocir it to return it to its intermediate position, against the resistance offered to such movement of block l5 by the aforementioned spring-pressed plungers 5'! thus affording the so-called momentary conn tact type of operation oi the switch parts at that end of base iii. If a non-momentary Contact type of operation oi the switch parts is desired, at the other end of base the two springs at auch end would. of course, be omitted. The aforementioned springs will he retained within the grooves into which they may he inserted the insulating plate dii overlyii'igl the same,

In d to 9, inclusive, il have illustrated :i three-pole, single throw switch constructed in accordance with my invention. The molded in" sulating base iii) is in many respects, including the overall dimensions thereof, identical with the base i5 aforedescribed. The recess 8| in base 8U differs from the recess I6 in base l5 in respect of omitting the pairs of barriers of triangular form in transverse cross section from the three compartments formed in recess 8| by barrier portions like those afc-redescribed (see Figs. 6 and '1). As shown in Fig. 7, the three transversely alined recesses 82 have thin integral diaphragms 83 formed at the lower ends thereof, to prevent entrance of dust or other foreign matter into recess 8|. If desired, the die member employed to form recess 8| may be so shaped as to also eliminate such recesses 82.

Only three stationary contacts 44 (like those aforedescribed) are required in this single throw switch; the same being shown positioned at the left-hand end of recess 8| (Figs. 6 and '7) to provide for on" positioning of the switch parts upon clockwise movement of handle 84 of the operating lever; although said contacts 44 might be positioned at the other end of recess 8| if desired. Contacts 44 are here shown as having terminal members 85 attached thereto by rivets 35 and exposed at the lower surface of the base. Re-

silient contact members 86 (Figs. 6 and 7) are attached, at the other end of each of the three compartments, to terminals 85 by means of rivets 35 like those aforementioned. The sliding block 45 and the parts carried thereby are identical with such parts aforedescribed, and the same have been given like characters of reference. However, the three contactors 42 have only one contact tip 44*1 attached thereto; the same being located at the left-hand end thereof for cooperation with the tips 44'1 carried by the stationary contacts 44; and, in addition, the righthand springs 56 associated with the respective contactors 42 are omitted. The upwardly extending and downwardly curved free end portions oi members 86 are adapted to continuously engage the lower surfaces of the horizontal portions of the respective contactors 42 (Fig. 7) to afford electrical connections between the latter and the right-hand terminal members 85. Inasmuch as the aforementioned right-hand springs 56 are omitted, it will be apparent that in the off position of the switch the contactors 42 will not be biased to a centered relationship to block 45. However, due to the greater degree of throw of block 45 in moving the contactors 42 from on to oi'f position, an adequate spacing of contactors 42 from the contacts 44 is provided in said olf position.

Recess 8| is further provided in the side walls thereof with opposed pairs of like grooves or slots 81, 81 and 88, 88, which are adapted for cooperation with the plungers 51 to bias block 45 and the contactors 42 carried thereby into one or the other of their extreme positions. As will be apparent from consideration of Figs. 9 and 4, blocks 45 are required to move like distances between opposite extreme positions in each form of switch; and hence the distance between the outer edges of grooves 81, 88 is substantially the same as the distance between the outer edges of the grooves i5a and i5c in the double-throw switch aforedescribed.

The insulating base B and block 45 0f Figs. 6 to 9 may have associated therewith the aforedescribed supporting and operating superstructure shown in Figs. 2 and 3, including metal plate bushing 52, lever 53a and cover member B8. However, I have illustrated in Fig. '1 an alternative form of supporting and operating super- Til structure, including a punched and stamped sheetl metal cover member 89, which is preferably attached to base 80 in the same manner as the member 58 aforedescribed. Member 89 is provided with a centrally located raised portion or bulge 90 of substantially rectangular contour; thus providing an upwardly offset horizontal por tion 9| having a circular opening to accom-i modate the reduced lower end of an externally threaded hollow bushing 92, which reduced end is upset over the inner surface of portion 9|, as indicated at 93, to rigidly secure said parts together. The aforementioned lever 84 has an enlarged portion 84El which is perforated to accommodate the pivot pin 54, whose head and upset shank end (not shown) are accommodated within countersinks at opposite sides of bushing 92. Lever 84 is also provided with portions 84h, 84 and 84; the portion |34d being adapted for engagement with the walls of recess a in block 45, and the same being engaged by the upper end of spring for the purpose aforedescribed. Inasmuch as the bushing 92 of Fig. 7 is attached to cover member 89, the metal plate 5| of Fig. 2 is not required.

It is to be understood that either the binding screw type of terminals shown inFigs. 2, 3 and 5 or the solder lug type of terminals shown in Figs. "I and 8 may be employed with both of the insulating bases I5 and 80 aforedescribed.

In Fig. 9 I have shown diagrammatically a pair of coiled compression springs 94, 94 locatedl with the complementary pairs of grooves 12, 16 and 15, 19; said springs being of sufficient strength ytc normally bias block 45 to its righthand extreme or oit position upon manual release of lever 84, notwithstanding the bias aiorded by spring-pressed plungers 51, 51 in the left-hand extreme position of block 45. If desired, the springs 94, 94 might be transposed to the complementary sets of grooves 13, 11 and, 14, 18, to provide a single throw switch of the momentary off type.

In Fig. 10 I have illustrated a further modiiied form of switch, which is a hybrid, in that the base of Figs. 6 to v9 may be employed in conjunction with three stationary contacts in each of the three compartments, suchv contacts being shown as identical with those of the switch of Figs. 1 to 5 and being designated by corresponding numerals of reference. In constructing a switch like that illustrated in Fig. 10 the base 66 has the three diaphragms 83 (of Fig. '1) at the lower ends of openings 82 breached out to accommodate the Shanks of the rivets utilized for attaching the double-armed resilient stationary contacts 4|. A slider block like the block 't5 aforedescribed will be employed with the base' 80 of Fig. 10, such slider block having three contactors associated therewith, and each contacter having a pair of coiled compression springs associated therewith, in the manner indicated at 5|), 56 in Fig. 1. When all of the other switch parts are assembled with the base 8|) of Fig. 10. a so-called double-throw switch without an oii'f positionl will be provided; it being understood that the alternative forms of supporting and operating superstructures aforedescribed may be employed with the base 8|) of Fig, 10.

I claim:

1. In a multi-pole electric switch, in. combination, a recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating block slidably positioned within said recess for movement from one extreme position to the other, a plurality of sets of stationary 11 contacts mounted upon the bottom and end walls of said recess, a corresponding number of bridg ing contactors slidably positioned upon the lower surface of said block and resiliently biased to a given relationship to the latter, means for substantially completely isolating each set of contacts and its associated contactor from the others, said means comprising barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls of said recess, said block having grooves formed in the corresponding surfaces thereof for overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions of said parts, said recess having a series oi adjacent cam-shaped grooves formed in a side wall thereof, a plunger slidably carried by said block and spring-biased laterally therefrom for cooperation with the walls oi said grooves to normally insure a given positioning of said block with respect to said recess upon a predetermined degree of movement of the former, and manually operable means having a lost-motion driving connection with said block for effect ing movement of the latter at will in opposite "directions respectively.

2. In a multi-pole electric switch. in combina tion, a recessed molded` insulating base, a molded insulating block slidably positioned within said recess for movement from one extreme position to the other, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts mounted upon the bottom and end walls of said recess, a corresponding number of bridging contactors slidably positioned upon the lower surface o! said block and resiliently biased to a given relationship to the latter, means for substantially completely isolating each set of contacts and its associated contacter from the others, said means comprising barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls of said recess, said block having grooves formed in the corresponding surfaces thereoi' for overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions of said parts, said recess having a series of adjacent cam-shaped grooves formed in a side wall thereof, a plunger slidably carried by said block and spring-biased laterally therefrom for cooperation with the walls oi said grooves to normally insure a given positioning of said block with respect to said recess upon a predetermined degree o! movement of the former, manually operable means having a lost-motion driving connection with said block for eil'ectlng movement o1' the latter at will in opposite directions respectively, and said eontactors and said block having cooperating shoulders formed thereon to positively insure disengagement o! the former from their associated contacts after a predetermined degree of movement of said block by said manual means.

3. In a multi-pole, double-throw electric switch, in combination, a recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating block slidably positioned within said recess for movement from an intermediate "oi'l" position to one or another o1' its "on" positions, a plurality o! sets of stationary contacts positioned adjacent the bottom wall and the opposite end walls of said recess, a correspending number oi' double-ended bridging contactors slidably positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said block having pairs oi shoulders formed therein for cooperation with the ends of the respective contactors to limit the degree of movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, coiled compression springs interposed between each of said shoulders and the adjacent ends o! said contactera to normally bias the latter to a centered relationship to said block, means for substantially completely insuu lating each set of contacts and its associated contactor from an adjacent set. said means comprisg ing a relatively low intermediate barrier portion and a set of relatively high end barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls of said recess, said block having grooves formed in the corresponding surfaces thereof for slidable overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions oi said parts, each side wall of said recess having a series of three adjacent V-shaped vertical grooves formed therein, said block having a pair of plungers slidably mounted therein and springbiased outwardly therefrom for cooperation with the walls of said grooves to resiliently retain said block in f any one of the three positions to which it may be moved, and manually operable means having lost-motion driving connection with said bloei; for eii'ecting movement oi the latter at will to any one of said three positions thereof.

4. In a multi-pole, double-throw electric switch, in combination, a recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating block slidably positioned within said recess for movement from an intel'- mediate oil position to one or another of its on positions, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts positioned adjacent the bottom wall and the opposite end Walls of said recess, a corre sponding number of double-ended bridging contactors slidably positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said block having pairs of shoulders formed thereon Ior cooperation with the ends oi' the respective contactors to limit the degree of movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, coiled compression springs interposed between each of said shoulders and the adjacent ends of said contactors to normally bias the latter to a centered relationship to saisi block, means for substantially completely insu-- lating each set of contacts and :its associated contactor from an adjacent set, said means con.- prising a relatively low intermediate barrier por tion and a set of relatively high end barrier poitions formed integrally with the bottom and end Walls of said recess, said block having grooves formed in the corresponding surfaces thereof for slidable overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions of said parts, each side wall of said recess having a series oi three adjacent V-shaped vertical grooves formed therein. said block having a pair of plungers slidw ably mounted therein and spring-biased outward-- ly therefrom lor cooperation with the walls ol' said grooves to resiliently retain said bloeit in any one of the three positions to which it may be moved, said block having' a recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, and a lever pivotally supported relatively to sold base, the lower end of said lever having a lost-- motion driving connection with the walls ol said last mentioned recess.

5. In a multipole, double-throw electric switch, in combination, o, recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating bloei: slidably positioned within said recess for movement from an intermediate oil position to one o1- another of its on positions, a plurality of sets ci stationary contacts positioned adjacent the bottom wall and the opposite end walls oi said recess, o. corresponding number of double-ended bridging contactors slidably positioned upon the lov/er sur-a face of said block, said block having pairs ci" shoulders formed thereon iol' cooperation with.

13 the lends of the respective contactors to limit the degree of movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, coiled compression springs interposed between each of said shoulders and the adjacent ends of said contactors -to normally bias the latter to a centered relationship to said block, means for substantially completely insulating each set of contacts and its associated contactor from an adjacent set, said means comprising a relatively low intermediate barrier portion and a set of relatively high end barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls of said recess, said block having grooves formed in the corresponding surfaces thereof for slidable overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions of said parts. each side wall of said recess having a series of three adjacent V-shaped vertical grooves formed therein, said block having a pair of plungers slidably mounted therein and spring-biased outwardly therefrom for cooperation with the walls of said grooves to resiliently retain said block in any one of the three positions to which it may be moved, said block having a recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, a lever pivotally supported relatively to said base, the lower end of said lever having a lost-motion driving connection with the walls of said last mentioned recess, one contact of each of said sets' having a resilient free end portion adapted for continuous slidable engagement with its associated contacter, and means including an insulating member overlyingthe upper end of said base and said block to restrain the latter against upv Ward displacement from said first mentioned recess.

6. In a multipole, double throw electric switch, in combination, a recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating block slidably positioned within said recess for movement from an intermediate olif position to one or another of its on" positions, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts positioned adjacent the bottom wall and the opposite end walls of said recess, a corresponding number of double-ended bridging contactors slidably positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said block having pairs of shoulders formed thereon for cooperation with the ends of the respective contactors to limit the degree of movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, coiled compression springs interposed between each of said shoulders and the adjacent ends of said contactors to normally bias the latter to a centered relationship to said block, means for substantially completely insulating each set of contacts and its associated contactor from an adjacent set, said means comprising a relatively low intermediate barrier portion and a set of relatively high end barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls of said recess. said block having grooves formed in the corresponding surfaces thereof for slidable overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions of said parts, each side wall of said recess having a series of three adjacent V-shaped vertical grooves formed therein, said block having a pair of plungers slidably mounted therein and spring-biased outwardly therefrom for cooperation with the walls of said grooves to resiliently retain said block in any one of the three positions to which it may be moved, said block having a recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, a lever pivotally supported relatively to said base, the lower end of said lever having a lost-motion 14 driving connection with the walls of said last mentioned recess, one contact of each of said sets having a resilient free end portion adapted for continuous slidable engagement with its associated contacter, means including an insulating member overlying the upper end of said base and said block to restrain the latter against upward displacement from said first mentioned recess, and each of said contacts having a wiring terminal member electrically connected thereto and accessible at the lowerV surface of said base.

7. In a multi pole. double throw electric switch, in combination, a recessed molded insu' lating base, a molded insulating block slidably positioned within said recess for movement from an intermediate off position to one or another of its on positions, a plurality of setsvof stationary contacts positioned adjacent the bottom wall and the opposite end walls of said recess, al

corresponding number of double-ended bridging contactors slidably positioned upon the lower surface of said block. said block having pairs of shoulders formed thereon for cooperation with the ends of the respective contactors to limit the degree of movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, coiled compression springs interposed between each of said shoulders and the adjacent ends of said contactors to normally bias the latter to a centered relationship to said block, means for substantially completely insulating each set of vcontacts and its associated contactor from an adjacent set, said means comprising a relatively low intermediate barrienportion and a set of relativelyvhigh end barrierfportions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls of said recess, said block having grooves formed in the corresponding surfacesthereof for slidable overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions of said parts, .each side wall of said recess having' a series of three adjacent V-shaped vertical grooves formed therein, said block having a pair of plungers slidably mounted therein and springbiased outwardly therefrom for cooperation with the walls of said grooves to resiliently retain said block in any one of the three positions to which it may be moved, said block having a recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, a lever pivotally supported relatively to said base, the lower end of said lever having a lost-motion driving connection with the walls of said last mentioned recess, one contact of each of said sets having a resilient free end portion adapted for continuous slidable engagement with its associated contactor. means including an in sulating member overlying the upper end of said base and said block to restrain the latter against upward displacement vfrom said first mentioned recess, each of said contacts having a wiring terminal member electrically connected thereto and accessible at the lower surface of said base, andv said lower surface of said base having barriers formed integrally therewith between each and all of said terminal members.

8. In a multi-pole switch of the character described, in combination, a molded insulating base of substantially rectangular contour, said base having a substantially rectangularrecess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, said recess having a plurality of sets of barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and able into said recess to a position substantially flush with the upper end of the latter, said bloei-r being so dimensioned as to afford a predetermined degree of sliding movement thereof in said plane, and said block having a plurality of sets of grooves in the bottom surface and the respective end surfaces thereof to respectively slidably accommodate the aforementioned barrier portions in all of the respective positions of said parts, whereby a plurality of compartments are provided in insulated relationship to each other, each of said compartments being adapted to house a set of stationary contacts and a bridging contactor to be associated therewith.

9. In a multi-pole switch of the character described, in combination, a molded insulating base of substantially rectangular contour. said base having a substantially rectangular recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, said recess having a plurality of sets of barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls thereof. a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular contour freely insertable into said recess to a position substantially flush with the upper end of the latter, said block being so dimensioned as to afford a predetermined degree of sliding movement thereof in said plane, said block having a plurality of sets of grooves in the bottom surface and the respective end surfaces thereof to respectively slidably accommodate the aforementioned barrier portions in all of the respective positions of said parts, whereby a plurality of compartments are provided in insulated relationship to each other, each of said compartments being adapted to house a set of stationary contacts and a bridging contacter to be associated therewith, each side wall of said recess having a plurality of substantially V-shaped vertical grooves formed therein and opening to the upper end of said base. and said block having a pair of insulating plungers slidably carried thereby and spring-biased outwardly therefrom, said plungers jointly cooperating with said grooves to yieldably urge said block to one or another of the positions predetermined therefor.

l0. In a multi-pole switch of the character described. in combination, a molded insulating base of substantially rectangular contour, said base having a substantially rectangular recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, said recess having a plurality of sets of barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls thereof, a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular contour freely insertable into said recess to a position substantially flush with the upper end of the latter, said block being so dimensioned as to afford a predetermined degree of sliding movement thereof in said plane, said block having a plurality of sets of grooves in the bottom surface and the respective end surfaces thereof to respectively slidably accommodate the aforementioned barrier portions in all of the respective positions of said parts, whereby a plurality of compartments are provided in insulated relationship to each other, each of said compartments being adapted to house a set of stationary contacts and a bridging contactor to be associated therewith, each side wall of said recess having a plurality of substantially V-shaped vertical grooves formed therein and opening to the upper end of said base, and said block having a pair of insulating plungers slidably carried thereby and spring-biased outwardly therefrom, said plungers jointly cooperating with said grooves to yieldably urge said block to one or another of the positions predetermined 16 therefor, means comprising a manually operable lever pivotally supported relatively to said base, said block having a recess formed in the upper surface thereof, and the lower end of said lever having a lost-motion driving connection with the walls of said last mentioned recess.

11. In an electric switch, in combination, a recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating block positioned and slidable within the recess in a substantially flush relationship to the upper surface of said base, said recess having one dimen sion of substantially greater length than the corresponding dimension of said block to permit a predetermined degree of movement of the latter f from one extreme position to the other, a set oi' stationary contacts respectively located adjacent the bottom and end walls of said recess, a bridgingr contactor positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said block and said contactor being cooperatively formed to provide a predetermined degree of sliding lost motion therebetween, spring means interposed between said block and said contactor to normally bias the latter to a given position relatively to said block, one of said contacts having a continuous, resilient, slidable engagement with said contactor, said contacter being movable by said block into and out of engagement with another of said contacts, at least one wall of said recess having a plurality of adjacent V-shaped grooves formed therein, a spring pressed plunger carried by said block for cooperation with the walls of said grooves for definitely positioning said block and said contacter when the latter is in or out of engagement with said contact last mentioned, and means including a manually operable lever pivotally supported above said base, said lever having a lost motion driving connection with said block.

12, In an electric switch, in combination. a recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulatlng block slidably positioned within the recess in a substantially flush relationship to the upper surface of said base, said recess having one dimension of substantially greater length than the corresponding dimension of said block to permit a predetermined degree of movement of the latter from one extreme position to the other, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts respectively located adjacent the bottom and enti walls of said recess, a corresponding number of double-ended bridging contactors positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said block and said contactors being cooperatively formed to provide a. predetermined degree of sliding lost motion therebetween, coiled compression springs interposed between said block and certain of the ends of said contactors to normally bias the latter to given like positions relatively to said block, one contact of each set having a continuous, rcsilient, slidable engagement with its associated contacter, said contactors being movable jointly by said block into and out of engagtment wth another contact of cach set, at least one side wall ot said recess having a plurality oi adjacent V-shaped grooves formed therein, o. plunger car ried by said block and spring-biased laterally therefrom for cooperation with the walls of said grooves for definitely positioning said block and said contactors when the latter are jointly in or out of engagement with the respective contar-ts last mentioned, and means including a manuaiiy operable lever having a pivot in fixed relat'onsi'ii) to said base, the lower end of said lever having a lost motion driving connection with said blocs.

13. In an electric switch, in combination, a

y i7 recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating block slidably positioned within the recess in a substantially flush relationship to the upper surface of said base, said recess having one dimension of substantially greater length than the corresponding dimension of said block to permit a predetermined degree of movement of the latter from one extreme position to the other, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts respectively located adjacent the bottom and end walls of said recess, a corresponding number` of double-ended bridging contactors positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said block and said contactors being cooperatively formed to provide a predetermined degree of sliding lost motion therebetween, coiled compression springs interposed between said block and certain of the ends of said contactors to normally bias the latter to given like positions relatively to said block, one contact of each set having a continuous, resilient, slidable engagementl with its associated contactor, said contactors being movable jointly by said block into and out of engagement with another contact of each set, at least one side wall of said recess having a plurality of adjacent V-shaped grooves formed therein, a plunger carried by said block and spring-biased laterally therefrom for cooperation with the walls of said grooves for definitely positioning said block and said contactors when the latter are jointly in or out of engagement with the respective contacts last mentioned, means including a manually operable lever having a pivot in fixed relationship to said base, the lower end of said lever having a lost motion driving connection with said block, said recess having barrier portions formed integrally with the bottom and end walls thereof between each of said sets of contacts, and said block having grooves formed in the bottom and end surfaces thereof between each o! said contactors to accommodate said barrier portions in all positions of said block, whereby substantially closed arcing chambers are provided for each set of contacts and the contactors respectively associated therewith le, In an electric switch, in combination, a molded insulating base having a substantially rectangular recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, a set of stationary contacts located within said recess, one contact being positioned adjacent and in parallel relation to an end wall of said recess, another contact being resilient and having a curved free end portion projecting upwardly a substantial distance from the bottom wall of said recess, a molded insulating block positioned within said recess and guided by the side walls of the latter for movement in a plane parallel to Said bottom wall, a contactor having a relatively long at intermediate portion with relatively short integral arms upstanding therefrom being posiiioncd upon the lower surface of said block and having a predetermined degree of lost motion with respect thereto, a pair of coiled compression springs interposed between the respective contactor arms and abutments formed on said block to normally bias said contact/or to a centered position relatively to said block, the free end portion of said resilient contact being continuously engaged with said contacter, a plunger carried by said block and spring-biased toward a side wall of said recess, said side wall having camshaped vertical grooves formed therein adjacent to each other for cooperation with said plunger to resist sliding movement of said block from each of a plurality of predetermined positions toy another, means including a plate overlying said recess to restrain said block against upward displacement, and manually operable means for efecting the aforementioned movements of said block.

15. In an electric switch, in combination, a.

guided by the side walls of the latter for move' ment in a plane parallel to said bottom wall, a-

contactor having a rela'ively long flat interme-l diate portion with relatively short integral arms upstanding therefrom being positioned upon the lower surface of said -block and having a prede# termined degree of lost motion with respect thereto, a pair of coiled compression springs interposed between the respective contactor arms and abutments formed on said block to normally bias said contactorto a centered position relatively to said block, the free end portion of said resilient contact being continuously engaged with said contactor, a plunger carried by said block` and spring-biased toward a side wall of said recess, said side wall having cam-shaped vertical grooves `fformed therein adjacent to each other for cooperation with said plunger to resist sliding movement of said block from each of a plurality of predetermined positions to another, means including a plate overlying said recess to restrain said block against upward displacement, manually operable means for effecting the aforemen-l tionedmovement-s of said block, and said springbiased plunger acting to insure movement of said block and said contactor to one or another of their predetermined positions upon release of said manually operable means under all conditions,

16. In an electric switch, in combination, a molded insulating base having a relatively deep substantially rectangular recess formed therein and opening to the upper end thereof, a molded.

insulating block positioned within said recess in a relationship substantially flush with the upper surface of said base, at least one contactor carrled by said block at the lower end of the latter, said contacter having a resilient connection with said block to afford a predetermined degree of sliding lost motion therebetween, a set of station.- ary contacts positioned within said recess, at least one of said contacts having a portion upstanding from the bottom wall of said recess adjacent and in parallel relationship to an end wall of the latter, another of said contacts having an upwardly extending resilient arm continuously slidablycngaged with said contactor, said contactor having a portion parallel to said portion of the first mentioned contact and movable into and out of engagement with the latter, means for effecting such movements of said contactor, said last rncn` tioned means including manually operable means for effecting corresponding movements of said block, and means including a spring-pressed plunger carried by said block and a plurality of V-shaped grooves formed adjacent cach other in Said recess for cooperation with said plunger to insure movement of said block and said contacter to one or another of the predetermined positions thereof upon a given degree of movement of said block by said manually operable means in each direction respectively 17. In an electric switch, in combination, af

molded insulating base having a relatively deep substantially rectangular recess formed therein and opening to the upper end thereof, a molded insulating block positioned within said recess in a relationship substantially flush with the upper surface of said base, at least one contacter carried by said block at the lower end of the latter, said contacter having a resilient connection with said block to afford a predetermined degree ei' sliding lost motion therebetween, a set of stationary contacts positioned within said recess, at least one of said contacts having a portion upstanding from the bottom wall of said recess adjacent and in parallel relationship to an end wall of the latter, another of said contacts having an upwardly extending resilient arm continuously slidably engaged with said contacter, said contacter having a portionparallel to said portion of the ilrst mentioned contact and movable into and out ei' ensagement with the latter, means for eifecting such movements of said contacter, said last mentioned means including manually operable means for effecting corresponding movements of said block, means including a spring-pressed plunger 20 having end portions bent upwardly at substantially right angles thereto, said block having ver. tical shoulders oset inwardly from opposite ends thereof for engagement selectively `icy the respec- :tive ends of said contacter to 4limit the degree ,ef sliding movement of the latter in each direc tion relatively to said block, said block also having vertical shoulders oilset inwardly from the re spective shoulders aforementioned, and a coiled compression spring interposed between at least one of said last mentioned shoulders and the adjacent end of said contacter to normally insure a predetermined position of the latter relatively te said block.

20. As an article of manufacture, a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular conn teur. said block having a substantially cylindrical recess formed therein centrally thereof, said recess having a flared end opening to the upper surface of said block, a coiled compression spring positioned within said recess to act as a resilient abuiment for the lower end of a pivoted lever or' suitable ferm, a plurality of like bridging con tacters slidably positioned in parallel spaced re iationship to each other upon the lower surface of said block, each contacter having opposite end l,'portions thereof bent upwardly at substantially carried by said block and a plurality of V-shaped grooves formed adjacent each other in said recess for cooperation with said plunger to insure movement of said block and said contacter te one or another of the predetermined positions thereof upon a given degree of movement oi' said block by said manually operable means in each direction respectively, and means including a coiled springv interposed between said block and said manually operable means to insure proper follow-up positioning of the latter upon manual release thereof. whereby the condition of the controlled circuit is indicated.

18. As an article of manufacture, a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular conteur, said block having a recess formed therein centrally thereof, said recess having a flared end opening to the upper surface ef said block, a coiled compression spring positioned within said recess to provide a resilient abutment for the lower end of a manually operable member ef suitable form, a contacter slidably positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said con tactor having end portions bent upwardly at substantially right angles thereto, said block having vertical shoulders offset inwardly from opposite ends thereof for engagement selectively by the respective ends of said contacter to limit the degree of sliding movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, said block also having vertical shoulders offset inwardly from the respective shoulders aforementioned, and a pair of coiled compression springs interposed be tween said last mentioned shoulders and the respective ends of said contacter to normally insure substantially centered position of the latter rela- 4 tively to said block.

19. As an article of manufacture, a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular contour, said block having a recess formed therein centrally thereof, said recess having a flared end opening to the upper surface of said block, a coiled compression spring positioned within said recess to provide a resilient abutment for the lower end of a manually operable member of suitable ferm, a contacter siidably positioned upon the lower surface of said block, said contacter surface 7s surface of said block, a coiled compression right angles thereto, said block having pairs of vertical shoulders offset inwardly from opposite ends thereof, the shoulders of said pairs being adapted for engagement selectively by the re spective ends of said contacters to limit the dearee of sliding movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, said block also havinl pairs of relatively smaller vertical shoulders onset inwardly from the shoulders of the respective pairs aforementioned, and a plurality of coiled compression springs each interposed be tween one of the last mentioned shoulders and an adjacent end of a contacter,

21. As an article of manufacture, a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular conn tour, said block having a substantially cylindrical recess formed therein centrally thereof, said recess having a flared end opening to the upper of said block, a coiled compression spring' positioned within said recess to act as a resilient abutment for the lower end of a pivoted lever of suitable ferm, a plurality of like bridging contactcrs slidably positioned in parallel spaced relationship to each other upon the lower surface of said block, each contacter having opposite end portions thereof bent upwardly at substantially right angles thereto, said block having pairs oi' vertical shoulders offset ends thereof, the shoulders of said pairs being adapted for engagement selectively by the respective ends of said contactors to limit the degree of sliding movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, said block also having pairs of relatively smaller vertical .shoulders offset inwardly from the. shoulders ci the respective pairs aforementioned, and a corresponding number of coiled compression springs respectively interposed between each ol' the lost mentioned shoulders and an adjacent end oi' n contacter, to thereby normally insure suhstan tially centered positioning el each of said con* tactors relatively to said block.

22. As an article oi manufacture, a molded in sulating block of substantially rectangular' contour, said block having a substantially cylindrical mess formed therein centrally thereof, said recess having a flared end opening to the upper spring inwardly from opposite positioned within said recess te act as a resilient abutment for the lower end of a pivoted lever ef suitable form, a plurality of like bridging cenltactors slidably positioned in parallel spaced relationship to each other upon the lower surface of said block, each contacter having opposite end portions thereof bent upwardly at substantially right angles thereto, said block having pairs of vertical shoulders offset inwardly from opposite ends thereof, the shoulders of said pairs being adapted for engagement selectively by the respective ends of said contactors to limit the degree of sliding movement of the latter in each direction relatively to said block, said block also having pairs ef relatively smaller vertical shoulders offset inwardly from the shoulders of the respective pairs aforementioned, a corresponding number of coiled compression springs respectively interposed between each of the last mentioned shoulders and an adjacent end of a contacter, to thereby normally insure substantially centered positioning of each of said contactors relatively te said block, and said block having grooves formed in the bottom and side surfaces thereof between each of said contactors for sliding and sealing engagement with barriers formed upon a suitable insulating base.

23. In an electric switch, in combination, a molded insulating base having a substantially rectangular recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular contour, said block being ef a size to nt between and be guided by the side walls of said recess, said recess being of a length te permit a predetermined degree of movement of said block in a straight line between opposite extreme positions thereof, at least one set of stationary contacts positioned adjacent the bottom and end walls of said recess, a contacter having a flat portion thereof slidable upon the bottom surface of said block, said contacter having end portions bent in a like direction into everlapping relationship te said block, said block having shoulders formed thereon for engagement by the respective end portions of said contacter to limit the degree of sliding movement ef the latter relatively to said block, a coiled compression spring interposed between one of said shoulders and one end portion of said contacter to normally bias the latter te a given position relatively te said bleek, said last mentioned end portion of said contacter being adapted for movement into and out of engagement with one of the contacts of said set as an incident to corresponding movements of said block, another contact having a resilient portion affording a continuous sliding engagement thereof with the fiat portion of said contacter, said spring acting upon movement of said block te one extreme position to aord a predetermined degree of pressure oi' said contacter against said rst mentioned contact and to prevent bouncing ef said contacter as an incident to such engagement, at least one plunger carried by said block and spring-biased outwardly with respect thereto, and a corresponding number of sets of grooves formed in a wall er walls of said recess for cooperation therewith to reslliently retain said block and said contacter in any one ef a number of predetermined positions to which the same may be moved.

24. In an electronic switch, in combination, a. molded insulating base having a substantially rectangular recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, a molded insulating block of substantially rectangular contour.

said block being of a size te nt between and be guided by the side walls of said recess, said recess being of a length te permit a predetermined degree of movement of said block in a straight line between opposite extreme positions thereof, at least one set ef stationary Acontacts positioned adjacent the bottom and end walls of said recess.

a contacter having a iiat portion thereof slidable upon the bottom surface of said block, said contacter having end portions bent in a like directlon into overlapping relationship te said block, said block having shoulders formed thereon for engagement by the respective end portions of said contacter to limit the degree of sliding movement of the latter relatively to said block, a coiled compression spring interposed between ene of said shoulders and one end portion ef said contacter to normally bias the latter to a given position relatively to said block, said last mentioned end portion of said contacter being adapted for movement into and out of engagement with one of the contacts of said set as an incident to a corresponding movement of said block, another Contact having a resilient portion affording a continuous sliding engagement thereof with the fiat portion of said contacter, said spring acting upon movement of said block to one extreme position te afford a predetermined degree of pressure of said contacter against said first mentioned contact and to prevent bouncing of said contacter as an incident to such engagement, at least one plunger carried'by said block and spring-biased outwardly with respect thereto, a corresponding number of sets of grooves formed in a Wall or walls of said recess for cooperation therewith to resiliently retain said block and said contacter in any one of f a number of predetermined positions to which the same may be moved, said block having a substantially centrally located recess formed in the top surface thereof, a coiled compression spring within said last mentioned recess, a pivoted lever having one end portion loosely positioned within said recess and engaged with said spring to provide for movement of said block te said predetermined positions upon substantially corresponding movement of said-lever.

25. In an electric switch, in combination, a recessed molded insulating base, a molded insulating block positioned and slidable within the recess in a substantially flush relationship te the upper surface of said base, said recess having one dimension of substantially greater length l than the corresponding dimension of said block i able engagement with said contacter, said centaeter being movable by said block into and out of engagement with another of said contacts, at least one wall of said recess having a plurality of adjacent V-shaped grooves formed therein, a spring pressed plunger carried by said block for cooperation with walls of said grooves for normally denitely positioning said block and awww 23 t c said contactar when the latter is in or out oi' engagement with said contact last mentioned. means including a manually operablelever pivotally supported relatively to said base, said lever having a lost motion driving connection'lwith said block, said blockand said h4base having pairs of alined recesses formed therein and opening toward each other at the adjacent ends thereof. and a plurality of coiled springs interposed under a predetermined degree of compression between the end walls of certain of said alined recesses. said last mentioned springs acting to insure return o1 said block and said contactor to a predetermined position upon release oi' said lever after manual movement o! the latter in a given direction.

26. In a multi-pole electric switch, in combination, a recessed insulating base, a contactar supporting means slidably positioned within said recess, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts mounted upon the insulating base. avcorresponding number of bridging contactors positioned upon the contactor supporting means, means for substantially completely isolating each set of contacts and its associated contactar from the others, and manually operable means having a driving connection with said contact or supporting means for eii'ecting movement of the latter at will in opposite directions respectively.

27. In a multi-pole electric switch, in combination, a recessed insulating base, a contactor supporting means slidably positioned within said recess, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts mounted upon the insulating base. a corresponding number of bridging contactors positioned upon the contacter supporting means, means for substantially completely isolating each set of contacts and its associated contactor from thel others, manually operable means having a driving connection with said contactor supporting means for effecting movement of the latter at will in opposite directions respectively. said recess having cam-shaped elements formed therein, and a plunger carried by said contactor supporting means and spring-biased for cooperation with said cam-shaped elements to normally insure a given positioning of said contactor supporting means with respect to said recess upon a prede termlned degree of movement of the former.

28. In a multi-pole electric switch, incombination, a recessed insulating base, a contactor supporting means slidably positioned within said recess, a plurality oi' sets oi stationary contacts mounted upon the insulating base, a correspond- -ing number of bridging contactez-s positioned upon the contacter supporting means, means for substantially completely isolating each set of contacts and its associated contacter from the erable means having a driving connection with said contacter supporting means for effecting y movement of the latter at will in opposite directions respectively.

29. In a multi-pole electric switch, in combination, a recessed insulating base, a contactor supporting means slidably positioned within said recess, a plurality of sets of stationary contacts mounted upon the insulating base. a corresponding number of bridging contactors positioned upon the contactar supporting means, means for substantially completely isolating each set oi contacts and its associated contactor from the others, manually operable means having a driving connection with said contacter supporting means for eiecting movement of the latter at will in opposite directions respectively, said recess having cam-shaped elements formed therein, a plunger carried by said contacter supporting means and spring-biased for cooperation with said cam-shaped elements to normally insure a given positioning of said contacter supporting means with respect to said recess upon a predetermined degree of movement of the former, said isolating means comprising barrier portions formed integrally with the walls of said recess, and said contactar supporting means having grooves formed in the corresponding surfaces thereof for overlapping engagement with the respective barrier portions in all positions of said contacter supporting means.

MARTIN F. KOENIG.

REFERENCES CITED The following references are oi record in the rile of this patent:

UNITED STATES PATEITTS Number Name Date 2,336,389 Bentley Dec. '1, i943 2,390,344 Ayers Dec. d, i945 2,413,135 Baumgardner Dec. 24, lilfi 

